Homework

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Home : 2003 : August : 31

Homework
By Shirley

Lengthy, sorry! My homework policy is clearly explained at parent info nite in Sept. Beginning in November I assign homework each Monday, which is due back, signed by an adult, on Thursday. This allows flexibility for
individual family schedules. The homework goes home stapled as a packet, in a laminated pocket folder. On the cover sheet (a standard form I created) I merely check off what's inside (Math, Spelling, etc) and I add any specific directions to this sheet (seldom any). Also stapled inside the folder is a "homework tracker". I merely date and number that the homework was returned, and signed

by an adult. After 5 in a row, students get a "get out of homework free" pass, to take one assignment off. This still counts as a complete. (so the tracker goes 1-5, then back to 1...if they miss one, it's a 0, then goes back to 1...certificates are only given for 5 consecutive). If they don't use them, they save them to be turned in for prizes at the end of the year. (I track these in my mark book as well, so if they lose them, or if there's confusion, I know). I DO believe parents should be held accountable for their 6-7 year old!!! This being said...we ALL get "those families"...so if the child consistently brings homework back, but unsigned, I DO give them credit, I remind them quietly it should be signed, but say..."look what you did all on your own!" (major kudos). Assignments are brief, support inclass learning, but really COULD be done by most children without any help (spelling, math fact practice difficult, but...) At the end of the year, as part of my awards ceremony I recognize those who have 100% with a little gift bag, or summer bucket and shovel set with goodies inside. All others can trade homework passes earned...like 3 for trip to price box, 1 for tootsie pop, whatever! This has really caught on...kids coming to me know it from brothers/sisters/friends...getting costly because I get nearly 100% return (up from my first year of 2)Hope this helps!